hey there i am new also i got a book and it said do a poxy on it after you sanded your piece then after that dries do another light sanding on it . i did that and it worked great , i am hand painting my pieces i cant afford a airbrush either , after i paint my piece i mix the poxy again and brush it on let dry add hardware thats it has a great finish . I seen on here alot talk about using deft sealer that you can buy at your local lowes i was going to try that also. good luck i am learning still myself.
Christina

Sorry Lurechica.. I just found this message. I was on Vac. just got back. Best tip I can tell you is use Balsa wood it carves easy. I use a dremmel, Hobby Knife and sandpaper.. Sandpaper and dremmel help with detail, hobby knife helps you get it to the size or shape.. need more advice just pm me..ill try and shoot a video this fall and show everyone..carved is fun and easy when you get the hang of it.